What’s up, dudes and dudettes? I’m Domino and I arrived in Minnesota from Texas in early March. I’ve been told I’ve got a pretty heavy look. I am sporting this radical black mask and these radar dish ears to stay tuned to the cosmos. My eyes are a mellow light brown – some say they’re "soul-piercing," but I’m just taking in your aura, man. I’m not big on the "smiley" thing, but if I’m feeling your energy, I’ll give you a solid tail wag and a close-up lean.
My DNA is quite the cocktail: about 50% Am Staff Terrier and 25% Pit Bull, with a little sprinkle of GSD, Cattle Dog and Chow Chow for that extra flavor. I drifted up here from Texas after a gig as a service dog trainee didn’t quite pan out – turns out I’m a bit too "mouthy" for the little ones. When I get stoked, I just want to put my mouth on your heels, or arms, so I’m learning to redirect my excitement to a toy instead.
I’ve totally settled into the household flow. When the sun goes down, I retreat to my covered kennel for a solid 8 or 9 hours of shut-eye – sometimes I even put myself to bed. I’m cool hanging out there for about 4 hours during the day, too. My potty game is strong – very few accidents as long as I get a chance to touch grass every couple of hours. I’ve got "sit" dialed in, and my foster pawrents are having me work on "here" and "let’s go" when it’s time to take a hike. Walking on a leash is a work in progress – I’m using this "power loop" thing right now (it’s essentially a head halter) to keep me steady. I’m a food motivated guy, so consistent training with high-value treats would be radical.
I’m currently living with two adult humans, and honestly, I dig everyone’s energy equally. I tend to get excited quickly and pounce on things – toys and dogs, so a dog-savvy cat in my future family is a must. Because I like to use my mouth to say hello and show my affection, I should go to a home with older children. The resident female Cattle Dog and I get along swell: I let her nibble on my legs and face, and in exchange, she lets me curl up right next to her. Sometimes I need to be reigned in because I get a little too up in her business, and being on a leash next to my foster pawrents has helped me practice chilling out even when I’d rather be rowdy. Despite my laid-back attitude indoors, I’m pretty alert to the neighborhood scene. If I see a squirrel or another dog, I might let out a "hey man!" bark, or check in with my human. On walks I’ll send out the call of our ancestors (a small whine) when I spot another pup, but then I can be redirected pretty easily. I’m still learning that humans are just as interesting as the great outdoors, but no worries, with a little guidance (and tasty treats!), I’m getting there.
So, what’s my dream scenario? I’m looking for a home with an adult, dog-savvy resident dog who can show me how to ride the big waves. I’m not the "alpha" type – I’m chill with following the leader and soaking up the wisdom of an older, established dog. I’d love a family that’s down for some basic obedience training so we can really bond. I don't need a frantic lifestyle. I’m pretty independent for a pittie mix and I get most of my kicks playing with my four-legged bud and chasing a frisbee a couple times in the yard. I love to chew and be by you – my forever family should be experienced dog owners that can help me channel my "mouthiness" into toys and keep my focus on the good vibes. Could this be you?
